A patient who is increasing their use of OxyContin due to chronic back pain is indicating a condition known as:

The scenario described involves a patient increasing their use of OxyContin, which is a prescription opioid, indicating a condition known as tolerance. Over time, with regular use of a substance like OxyContin, the body adapts to its presence. As a result, the patient may require higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief they initially experienced. This phenomenon is known as tolerance, which occurs because the body becomes accustomed to the drug's effects, thereby requiring more of it to produce the desired effects.

Tolerance is a common occurrence with many medications, particularly opioids, and suggests that the patient's body is adjusting to the drug's action. Understanding this concept is crucial for healthcare providers to manage pain effectively while preventing potential misuse or complications associated with escalating dosages.